Hsu VFT-3 Mark II

[furrycute]

I'm thinking about purchasing a 12inch sub to complement my speakers for stereo use. I am debating between the Hsu VFT-3 and the Velodyne HGS12. Obviously the Hsu is a lot cheaper than the Velodyne. But the Velodyne is a sealed design. And for music reproduction, I've read that sealed subs are better.

So what do you guys think? I'm mainly going to be using the sub for 2 channel music.


And no, I'm definitely not considering an SVS (for one reason or another). So please don't bring up the SVS.

 

[Tomorrow]

My STF-3 sounds great with music, as did my STF-1! The VTF-3 should be even better. No one-note bass here. Nice, sharp kick drums and melodic bass runs. But I listen to rock and blues. I can't speak for classical or jazz presentations. The VTF-3 would definitely get my vote. I've heard several large model Velo subs, but not the HGS12, and found them wanting.

But I'm sure you'd be really happy with either.

 

[kingtut]

I have the VTF3 in the corner next to the sofa and the love seat. The sofa and the love seat are placed perpendicular to each other agaisnt the side and rearwalls. The VTF3 is placed sideway to fit under and end-table with the driver facing the sofa and the rear ports facing the the love seat (WAF). I plugged one of the ports for maximum extension and have the volume dial on the sub at 8.75 o'clock (6 o'clock is 0). The family room size is 12' x 13' x 9' and opens up (with no wall to separate the family room from the kitchen) to the kitchen; the kitchen dimension is 12' x 20' x 9'. Front corner of the family room also opens up to a 6' x 4' x 7' hallway & entrance of 8' x 5' x 9' (entrance also opens up to a vaulted ceiling living room).
For music, the VTF3 is very smooth. The bass blends in well with all type of music - can't even tell the bass is coming from the sub. For HT, the VTF3 has enough volume and extension to vibrate the walls. When I play the infamous Darla tapping the aquarium the first time, my wife was in the kitchen cooking thought there was an earthquake. I hope this assists you in choosing your sub.

 

[jaxvon]

I can definitely say that RJ's STF-1 STILL sounds good for music

Anywho, I think the decision between these subs will be made based on how much you're really going to spend, and what kind of music you listen to. If you like stuff like the 1812 Overture, then you're going to want the extra depth the VTF-3MKII has. But I would think that in the upper octaves, you're going to get better results with the Velo.

 

[furrycute]

I am looking for a sub primarily for music (I have a stereo setup). I have heard a lot of subs (albeit cheap ones) that sound really really really boomy, cannot at all keep up with the music. That's why I am extra cautious when it comes to purchasing a sub. I want the sub to be able to keep up with the music, not to lag behind it.

 

[Tomorrow]

I am looking for a sub primarily for music (I have a stereo setup). I have heard a lot of subs (albeit cheap ones) that sound really really really boomy, cannot at all keep up with the music. That's why I am extra cautious when it comes to purchasing a sub. I want the sub to be able to keep up with the music, not to lag behind it.

I think you have already identified two of the best. Alternatively, if you can handle the smaller size...as Jaxvon says..the STF-1 is doggone terrific!

 

[Sheep]

If you are willing to spend the money, I would go velodyne. Judging by reviews from the same source, the velodyne extends lower. It has output to 16hz(92.1dB), even 12hz(86.4dB). Now I don't know how true this is, but the lower a subwoofer extends into the none audible frequencies, it should have a flatter the response in the audible ones.


They are both great subwoofers, either one will please you, but if I was spending the money, I would get the velodyne.

Velodyne HGS Review:
http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_5_1/velodynehgs12.html


sheep

 

[RMK!]

HSU or Velodyne

I have the Velo DD-18 (essentially the HGS with built in EQ) and I just received an HSU VTF-3 II. The Velo is the best subwoofer I have heard for both music and HT. The HSU is a very nice compromise. You really can’t go wrong with either of those subs.

I suggest you also look at the Velo SPL 1200R. These have built in Auto EQ and as a sealed sub, are great for music. I had the previous model (SPL 1200 II) and it was a great sub for music but a little lacking for HT in my large room. Those can be had from e-tailers for <$1000 but with no warranty.

 

[furrycute]

Thanks for all the great suggestions. I think I'm going to save up a bit for a high end Velodyne.

 

[newfmp3]

I don't know why anyone would need or want more then the HSU. It's nuts

They have a turbo charger coming out for it as well that'll make it hit even lower.

Let me repeat, the thing is nuts.

But, I have not heard he Velo.

Good luck!

 

[furrycute]

Well, there is something to be said about a sealed enclosure design, and the servo control of the woofer.